Buick Encore

USCar Trader import service

Import this model from the USA or Canada

Choose a specific vehicle. Where data is available, its detail page shows the import cost calculation. We assess any possible duty benefit with you before purchase.

Important: A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact us before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support through the process. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.

CarHub · Buick

Buick Encore

The Buick Encore is a subcompact luxury-flavoured crossover that sold in big numbers across the United States, so used examples are plentiful and easy to source.

Body style
Typical used Buick Encore (1st gen): Subcompact 5-door crossover
Platform
Typical used Buick Encore (1st gen): GM Gamma II
Base engine
Typical used Buick Encore (1st gen): 1.4 L turbo four (Ecotec)
Base output
Typical used Buick Encore (1st gen): approx. 138 hp
Buick Encore

Buick Encore

Price:10,400.00 USD

Buick Encore GX

Buick Encore GX

Price:25,389.00 USD

Buick Encore

Buick Encore

Price:12,075.00 USD

Buick Encore GX

Buick Encore GX

Price:18,389.00 USD

Buick Encore GX

Buick Encore GX

Price:27,793.00 USD

Buick Encore

Model profile

Model history and generations

Model history and generations

The first-generation Encore ran from the 2013 model year through 2022 in the US. It shares its bones with the Opel/Vauxhall Mokka and Chevrolet Trax, a Gamma II small-car platform. A significant refresh for 2017 sharpened the styling, upgraded the interior materials and added the 8-inch IntelliLink touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Powertrain and equipment

Engines, drivetrain and trims

Engines and drivetrain

The Encore is a four-cylinder turbo car throughout. The core engine is GM's 1.4-litre Ecotec turbo, initially the LUJ/LUV at around 138 hp and 200 Nm, later the updated LE2 unit.

Which trim makes sense

The Encore is a five-door, five-seat crossover only. US trims typically run base, Preferred, Sport Touring, Essence and Premium. Higher trims add leather, heated seats and steering wheel, a Bose audio system, blind-spot monitoring and rear park assist.

Vehicle selection

North American market and suitability

Supply on the US market

Availability is very good. The Encore was a strong seller for Buick, so the used pool is large and geographically spread.

Who benefits from importing

The Encore suits a buyer who wants a compact, comfortable, quietly upmarket crossover and does not need strong performance.

Vehicle data

Technical data by generation and specification

Body and dimensions

Body styleTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): Subcompact 5-door crossover
LengthTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): approx. 4,280 mm
SeatingTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): 5

Engine and drivetrain

Base engineTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): 1.4 L turbo four (Ecotec)
Base outputTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): approx. 138 hp
Sport Touring engineTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): 1.4 L turbo (higher boost)
Sport Touring outputTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): approx. 153 hp
TorqueTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): approx. 200-235 Nm
TransmissionTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): 6-speed automatic
DriveTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): Front-wheel or AWD
FuelTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): Petrol

Model and other data

PlatformTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): GM Gamma II
AssemblyTypical used Buick Encore (1st gen): South Korea (Bupyeong)

Values are reproduced verbatim from the existing article table. The documents for the specific vehicle govern.

Pre-purchase review

Model-specific inspection points

Known weak points and maintenance

The Encore is generally dependable, but the 1.4 turbo Ecotec has a few known weak points worth checking on any used Buick Encore. The most common are timing chain wear on higher-mileage early engines, water-pump and coolant-system leaks, and PCV/intake issues that can throw check-engine lights. Some owners report turbo wastegate rattle. The six-speed automatic is robust if serviced.

Germany and Europe

Differences, adaptation and registration

US and EU spec compared

Because the Encore was also sold in Europe as the Opel Mokka, parts and familiarity are good.

TUEV, modifications and registration

Expected work is modest: adapt headlights to a compliant beam pattern, fit or activate a rear fog lamp, and have the odometer and displays assessed.

USCar Trader services

Inspection, purchase processing and escrow

As a buyer based in Germany, you do not have to inspect the vehicle yourself in the United States or Canada. Within the agreed scope, USCar Trader can coordinate document review, a separately commissioned on-site inspection and purchase processing.

  • Vehicle profile and history: The profile can show the VIN, US title status and available history records. No data source guarantees that every earlier event was reported.
  • Optional CARFAX report: Additional reported maintenance or service entries can be included. The report is not a complete service book or proof of every interval.
  • On-site inspection / USCT AutoCheck: USCar Trader can arrange a separately booked vehicle inspection. Agreed visible and accessible areas are documented. Road or functional tests require suitable access and seller approval; the visual review is not a lift inspection or workshop diagnosis.
  • Purchase processing and escrow: After approval, USCar Trader can coordinate seller contact, negotiation, contract and the escrow and import service. Fees, payment route and responsibilities are recorded in advance.
  • Recalls: Open safety recalls can be checked by VIN through the NHTSA recall search; they do not describe overall condition.

Covered inspection points are agreed in advance. An on-site inspection records condition at the appointment and is not a guarantee.

Next step: Before commissioning, USCar Trader and the customer agree which document, history, inspection and transaction checks suit the vehicle and are included in the service. This records what was actually checked.

Import process

Import, customs, costs and delivery

The import process in detail

The assessment depends on the specific vehicle and the circumstances of the transaction. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review any possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are considered separately.

Questions and answers

Common questions about importing this model

Does this vehicle automatically qualify for a 0% import-duty rate?

No, not automatically. A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.

Is the Buick Encore reliable?

Generally yes, provided the 1.4 turbo was serviced on time. Watch timing chain wear and coolant leaks on higher-mileage cars.

What is the difference between the Encore and Encore GX?

The GX is a separate, larger and newer model from 2020. This page covers the compact first-generation Encore.

Does the Encore have all-wheel drive?

An on-demand AWD option was available; most cars are front-wheel drive. AWD helps in winter but is not for off-road use.

Which Encore should I import?

Prefer a 2017-or-later car for the improved interior and 8-inch touchscreen with CarPlay and Android Auto.

How long does importing take?

Usually several weeks, driven mainly by ocean freight scheduling and TUEV appointment timing.

Does USCar Trader sell new Buick cars?

No. We are an independent broker for used US vehicles only, with no manufacturer partnership and no vehicle margin.

How can a specific Buick Encore be checked from Germany?

Available VIN, title and history information can be reviewed in the vehicle profile. USCar Trader can also arrange a separately booked on-site inspection within a scope agreed in advance.

More vehicles

Soon there will be news from the world of cars!